Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has indicated that the reopening of NTV Uganda and Daily Monitor will depend on ongoing discussions with international partners, introducing a new dimension to efforts aimed at restoring operations at the shuttered media houses.
In a fresh statement, Gen Muhoozi said authorities were engaging “allies in the UK and Europe” as part of the process to determine the next steps following the controversial shutdown of Nation Media Group (NMG) outlets in Uganda.
“As comrade Andrew Mwenda said, we are having discussions with our allies in the UK and Europe about re-opening both NTV and Daily Monitor. We shall take the results of these discussions to Mzee for final approval,” Muhoozi stated.
External Consultations Emerge
The remarks signal a shift from earlier positions, where the closure appeared to be a unilateral military directive.
The inclusion of foreign stakeholders suggests the matter may now involve diplomatic, corporate, or regulatory considerations, particularly given NMG’s regional footprint and international partnerships.
Muhoozi’s reference to “Mzee”—widely understood to mean President Yoweri Museveni—also underscores that the final decision on reopening will rest at the highest level of government.
Mwenda’s Mediation Role
The latest development builds on earlier comments by Mwenda, who revealed that leaders of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) had agreed in principle with Muhoozi to reopen the affected outlets. He noted that discussions with NMG management would precede any formal resumption.
Mwenda’s involvement has positioned him as a key intermediary in the unfolding situation, bridging communication between the military leadership and the media group.
Unclear Timeline, Conditions
Despite growing indications of a possible resolution, uncertainty remains over the timeline and conditions for reopening. Neither NMG nor Ugandan regulators have publicly outlined the framework under which operations will resume.
Media analysts say the introduction of international consultations could either delay the process or help establish broader consensus, depending on the outcomes of the engagements.